How to Prime a Camper Water Pump (The Ultimate Guide)

AvatarByDale Richard Camping

How to Prime a Camper Water Pump

Camping is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But when your camper water pump stops working, it can quickly put a damper on your trip. If you’re not sure how to prime a camper water pump, don’t worry, we’re here to help. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process step-by-step, so you can get your pump up and running in no time.

We’ll also provide some tips on how to prevent your pump from failing in the future. So whether you’re a seasoned camper or you’re just getting started, read on for all the information you need to know about priming a camper water pump.

Step Instructions Image
1 Turn on the water pump switch.
2 Open the water faucet.
3 Pump the handle until water flows out of the faucet.
4 Close the water faucet.

How to Prime a Camper Water Pump

Camper water pumps are essential for providing fresh water to your RV. However, if the pump becomes primed, it can stop working. Priming a camper water pump is a simple process that can be completed in a few minutes.

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply

The first step is to turn off the water supply to the pump. This can be done by turning off the valve at the water source or by turning off the switch on the pump itself.

Step 2: Open the Freshwater Tank Cap

The next step is to open the freshwater tank cap. This will allow you to access the water inlet valve.

Step 3: Insert the Primer Bulb

The primer bulb is a small rubber bulb that is attached to the water inlet valve. Squeeze the bulb several times to fill it with water.

Step 4: Prime the Pump

Once the primer bulb is filled with water, attach it to the water inlet valve and pump the bulb until you see water coming out of the discharge hose.

Step 5: Turn On the Water Supply

Once the pump is primed, you can turn on the water supply. The pump should start working and provide fresh water to your RV.

Troubleshooting

If the pump does not start working after priming it, there may be a problem with the pump itself. Here are a few things to check:

  • Make sure that the pump is turned on.
  • Check the water supply to make sure that it is turned on.
  • Check the primer bulb to make sure that it is not damaged.
  • If the pump is still not working, you may need to have it serviced or replaced.

Priming a camper water pump is a simple process that can be completed in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can ensure that your pump is working properly and that you have fresh water to enjoy on your next camping trip.

Here are some additional tips for maintaining your camper water pump:

  • Clean the pump regularly to prevent sediment from building up.
  • Replace the primer bulb every few years.
  • If the pump is not working properly, have it serviced or replaced by a qualified professional.

By following these tips, you can keep your camper water pump in good working order and enjoy fresh water on your next camping trip.

Step 3: Prime the Pump

Once you have located the water pump, it’s time to prime it. Priming the pump is the process of removing all of the air from the lines so that water can flow freely. To do this, you will need to:

1. Turn off the water supply to the pump.
2. Open the pressure relief valve on the pump.
3. Squeeze the primer bulb on the pump until it is firm.
4. Turn on the water supply to the pump.
5. Allow the pump to run for a few minutes to make sure that all of the air is removed from the lines.

Once the pump is primed, you should be able to turn on the faucet and get water flowing. If you are still having trouble, you may need to have the pump serviced.

Step 4: Turn On the Water Supply

Once the pump is primed, you can turn on the water supply to the camper. To do this, you will need to:

1. Locate the water supply valve on the camper.
2. Turn the valve to the “on” position.
3. Open the faucet to make sure that water is flowing.

If you are not sure where the water supply valve is located, you can consult your camper’s owner’s manual.

Once the water supply is turned on, you can start using the water in your camper. Just remember to turn off the water supply when you are finished.

Priming a camper water pump is a simple process that can be done in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can ensure that your camper’s water pump is working properly and that you have access to fresh water when you need it.

How do I prime a camper water pump?

1. Turn off the water pump and all water faucets.
2. Open the priming valve on the water pump.
3. Fill the priming reservoir with clean water.
4. Close the priming valve.
5. Turn on the water pump and open a faucet to allow water to flow through the pump.
6. Continue to prime the pump until water flows out of the faucet without any air bubbles.
7. Turn off the water pump and close the faucet.

What if the water pump won’t prime?

There are a few possible reasons why a water pump might not prime. Here are some troubleshooting tips:

  • Make sure that the water pump is turned on and that the power is connected.
  • Check the water supply to make sure that it is turned on and that there is sufficient water pressure.
  • Check the priming valve to make sure that it is open.
  • Clean the water pump impeller to remove any debris that may be blocking it.
  • Replace the water pump if it is damaged.

**How often do I need to prime my camper water pump?

You should prime your camper water pump every time you use it, or if the pump has been turned off for more than a few days.

**What is the best way to store a camper water pump?

To store a camper water pump, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the water pump and disconnect the power cord.
2. Drain the water from the pump and priming reservoir.
3. Remove the priming valve cover and clean the valve with a brush.
4. Apply a light coat of oil to the pump impeller and shaft.
5. Store the pump in a cool, dry place.

In this article, we have discussed how to prime a camper water pump. We have covered the different types of water pumps, the steps involved in priming a pump, and the common problems that can occur with water pumps. We hope that this information has been helpful and that you will be able to successfully prime your camper water pump.

Here are a few key takeaways from this article:

  • There are two main types of water pumps: electric and manual.
  • Electric pumps are the most common type of pump used in campers.
  • To prime an electric pump, you will need to turn on the power and open the faucet.
  • Manual pumps are less common than electric pumps, but they can be a good option for campers who do not have access to electricity.
  • To prime a manual pump, you will need to push the plunger down and then up.
  • The most common problem with water pumps is that they become clogged.
  • If your water pump is clogged, you can try to clear the clog by using a plunger or by flushing the pump with water.

We hope that this article has been helpful. If you have any other questions about priming a camper water pump, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.